LGBTQ Anxiety Is Heightening During these Tumultuous Times

Managing anxiety in these anxious times is a compelling and reasonable motivation to seek out psychotherapy and counseling. Not only our personal histories, but the outside world, of course, effects our mental and physical health. And for the LGBTQ community, these are still very difficult times in light of recent and pending court decisions.

One of the current issues heading to the US Supreme Court is a case that would permit tax-funded public organizations to deny basic services to Gay and Lesbian families and persons on the claim of First Amendment protection of religion.  Claiming lifestyle choices violate their religious beliefs, organizations like food banks, homeless shelters, and foster care agencies could in effect turn away LGBTQ persons in need of services (Fulton vs. City of Philadelphia).  Remember, it was not so long ago that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a Colorado baker refusing services, including making a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, on the grounds that this violated his religious freedom (Masterpiece Cakeshop vs Colorado Civil Rights Commission).

There is also a case now pending in Idaho targeting transgendered student athletes.  The lawsuit was brought on behalf of a student at Boise State University who is transgendered and had been planning to try out for the woman’s track team. Another student is also suing concerned that the present state law in Idaho would subject the petitioner to “sex verification” testing and procedures.

Finally, there is this. In a more recent case, you may recall a county clerk in Kentucky refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples claiming religious conviction even after the US Supreme Court had validated these unions. In a recent dissent, Justice Clarence Thomas of the Supreme Court claimed that same-sex marriage was a wrong and “novel” constitutional right in the face of the older free exercise of religion clause. He concluded the states individually should decide this issue of gay marriage.  Some commentators believe this is the pivot that future petitioners to the Supreme Court will use to re-litigate same-sex marriage.

Homophobia is still very much alive and well.  Even though LGBTQ persons have grown in power and community strength, too many people today still experience discrimination and bias.  

Psychotherapy is a proven strategy that does reduce anxiety, increase insight, and can significantly improve work-related issues and relationships or social problems. I have a long history and expertise in helping clients, particularly in these areas.

Call (917) 882-6696 to learn more about my psychotherapy services or to schedule an appointment.

There is this saying: Live in the Solution, Not Just the Problem.